And Through It All, MBNel Remains Humble

MBNel
Image via Isaiah De Anda

MBNel is motivated like never before. This year was marked by a series of new experiences for the budding star, but it’s something that Nel has been looking forward to his entire life. “It feels unrealistic,” is how he describes it, reveling in disbelief that he’s now living out his dreams. 

Surviving Stockton, California helped shape the first-generation, Filipino-American rapper into the man he is today. However, life beyond the shadows of “gangbanging and poverty” would later reveal that Nel is a voice that exists outside of his problems — he just needed to be heard.

Hope runs deep for Nel, who uses music to deliver a message about optimism to listeners. Although he’s often misunderstood, that hasn’t hindered the Stockton rapper from using his influence for a greater good. “Seeing people look up to me keeps me going,” he shares. According to Nel, the best part about being misunderstood is that it allows him to create impact without borders. He aims to preach survival, telling his story in the most sensible way. And through it all, he’s stayed true to his best asset: remaining humble.

Ahead of his performance at Rolling Loud California, Dirty Glove Bastard spoke to MBNel about growing up in Stockton, California, having a breakout year in music, being misunderstood, and more.

Talk to me about growing up in Stockton, California.

If you’re unfamiliar with Stockton, Stockton is known for homelessness: it ain’t really shit going on but gangbanging and poverty. 

Were you influenced by what was happening around you?

It’s a really big influence because that’s why I started making music. I didn’t really expect it to blow up like this but I’ve just been rolling with it. 

Child of the Trenches delivers a message of hope to fans. How does it feel to be in this position?

That’s motivation. Seeing people look up to me keeps me going. It puts a positive outlook on things, outside of everything, the streets and gangbanging. To inspire a couple of kids is big.

This year has been a year of firsts for you. You’re a first-generation, Filipino-American rapper, and this is your first Rolling Loud.

It’s crazy ‘cause people keep telling me that but I’m just tryna take it all in. It feels unrealistic. I don’t look at myself as this big symbol for my people. To know that I have influence is a blessing. This is my first Rolling Loud — it’s something I’ve been looking forward to since I was a kid and shit.

And it also keeps you humble. While we’re on the subject, what was it like co-directing your first music video (“Humble”) alongside Snipe Films.

I’ve always been into directing stuff. Working with Snipe, we were open to sharing ideas and he helped bring my vision to life. 

Is Snipe here with you today?

Yeah, that’s him right there.

(MBNel motions for Snipe Films to step into the trailer)

Snipe, how would you describe the on-set chemistry between you two?

I feel like a lot of artists usually leave everything to the cameraman, to figure it out and get things done for them, but with Nel, he actually comes to you with an idea and concept. His ideas come with a real base around it, so you have somewhere to start. He’s the one who makes the music so him telling the story is a lot more genuine. 

Nel, what’s your stance on loyalty? This isn’t the first time you and Snipe have worked together. 

I’d rather go up with my folks from the ground up, know what I’m saying. The chemistry is there and it’s like, what’s something they can’t do that another cameraman can do? We might as well go up together. 

Have you adjusted to the limelight just yet?  

I’m fasho adjusting to it. I’m currently on tour right now and I just came back from a sold-out show yesterday in Santa Cruz. This is a whole nother level right here, though. It’s a bigger crowd. And honestly, I’ma come in with the mindset of the crowd not knowing who I am. My thing is to keep them entertained and keep that energy. 

Do you care to be understood with your music?

To be honest, I have misunderstood tatted, so I want them to take it how they wanna take it. I’m not tryna portray myself in any specific way. It’s about how my listeners, supporters feel. If I can impact people’s lives, one or two kids, that shit is enough motivation for me. 

About the Author

Derrius Edwards
Derrius is a music industry professional with experience in content strategy and editorial writing, sharing relevant and resonating stories as a conduit for hip-hop culture advancement.

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